The transition from staff nurse to nurse leader is a natural promotional pathway in a nursing career. Yet seldom are staff nurses who are promoted to Show moreThe transition from staff nurse to nurse leader is a natural promotional pathway in a nursing career. Yet seldom are staff nurses who are promoted to management prepared – either practically or psychologically – for the job. This study, based on semi-structured qualitative interviews with 13 nurse leaders, describes from their perspectives, the perils of ill-prepared promotion to management. Our findings suggest that nurse leaders often “do” management but continue to “be” nurses. The schism between doing and being, as seen in previous research in other contexts, impacts nurse leader’s attitude, job satisfaction and performance. In an era where the nurse leader is seen as vital in helping to stem the nation’s escalating nursing shortage, understanding – and remedying – barriers to optimal performance is crucial. Show less
